Posted on December 8, 2011

Girl Scouts Receive $1.5 Million From Alcoa Foundation to Expand 'Forever Green' Project

Girl Scouts of the USA has announced a two-year, $1.5 million grant from the Alcoa Foundation to expand a newly launched environmental "action" project.

To mark its hundredth anniversary, the organization recently launched the Girl Scouts Forever Green project, which will focus on waste reduction, energy conservation, and the creation of rain gardens in 2012. The grant from Alcoa will enable GS councils in the United States and twenty other countries to identify and lead Forever Green projects and events focused on the environmental priorities of their local communities.

In addition, during the month of March Girl Scouts around the world will engage their families, friends, and communities in actions designed to reduce their carbon footprint. And on March 31, Girl Scouts will join millions around the world in observing Earth Hour by turning off their lights for one hour. Participating councils also will take the Girl Scouts Forever Green Pledge, which encourages the adoption of impact measurement and resource conservation activities in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Energy Star program.

"This is a landmark sponsorship for Alcoa Foundation that incorporates our commitment to sustainability and inspiring the next generation of environmental ambassadors," said Alcoa Foundation president Paula Davis. "Girls are influential, ambitious, and passionate about the environment and Girl Scouts Forever Green gives them tools and resources to engage their peers and neighbors to create their own positive change in their communities — from conservation to recycling to planting trees."